Cricket fans around the world were left heartbroken after news emerged of the tragic deaths of three young Afghan cricketers — Kabeer Agha, Sibghatullah, and Haroon — who lost their lives in a violent airstrike in Afghanistan’s Paktika province. The three rising talents were reportedly returning home after a local cricket match when they became victims of a senseless act of violence that has since sparked global outrage and grief within the cricketing fraternity. Jay Shah responded to this on X.
The incident not only claimed the lives of these promising athletes but also cast a dark shadow over Afghanistan’s thriving cricketing spirit. In a nation where cricket has been a rare source of unity and joy amid years of conflict, the loss of young players with bright futures has been deeply devastating. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed their deaths and expressed sorrow over the loss of “three dedicated cricketers whose passion for the game inspired their peers and communities.”
Jay Shah, the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), was among the first major cricket figures to respond publicly. His statement captured the emotions of millions of cricket fans and administrators around the world. “Deeply saddened by the loss of three young Afghan cricketers, Kabeer Agha, Sibghatullah, and Haroon, whose dreams were cut short by a senseless act of violence. The loss of such promising talent is a tragedy not just for Afghanistan but for the entire cricketing world. We stand in solidarity with the Afghanistan Cricket Board and all those mourning this heartbreaking loss,” Shah said.
Jay Shah’s words resonated deeply, reminding everyone that cricket is not just a sport but a global community bound by passion, resilience, and mutual respect. The ICC also echoed this sentiment, describing the deaths as a “heart-wrenching loss of potential and humanity.” Messages of condolence have poured in from current and former players, including those from India, Pakistan, and across the world, all united in grief and support for Afghanistan’s cricketing family.
The three young players were viewed as part of Afghanistan’s next generation of cricketers — a group inspired by the rise of stars such as Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Reports from local clubs indicate that all three were actively involved in regional tournaments and were known for their commitment and skill. Kabeer Agha was a talented top-order batter, Sibghatullah was emerging as a medium-pace bowler with leadership potential, and Haroon was considered a gifted all-rounder. Their deaths have created a void that will be difficult to fill in a country still building its cricketing infrastructure.
Following the tragedy, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has reportedly withdrawn from an upcoming T20 tri-series as a mark of mourning and protest. The ACB stated that the incident was “a national tragedy that reminds us how vulnerable our athletes remain even in times of peace.”
For Afghanistan, cricket has always represented more than just sport — it has been a symbol of hope, unity, and national pride. From playing in refugee camps to competing at the World Cup, the journey of Afghan cricket mirrors the resilience of its people. The loss of Kabeer Agha, Sibghatullah, and Haroon is not only a setback for Afghan cricket but also a reminder of the fragility of peace in regions still recovering from conflict.
Jay Shah’s statement captures this shared grief and solidarity, transcending national boundaries. His tribute stands as a reflection of how deeply intertwined the global cricket community has become. It also highlights the broader message that while the game can bring nations together, the safety and well-being of young athletes must never be taken for granted.